As Mike and Anna, two film actors involved in a tumultuous affair, and Charles and Sarah, the star-crossed Victorian lovers whom the actors portray, Meryl Streep and Jeremy Irons are at their compelling best. Just as his character Charles' reputation is ruined by the enigmatic Sarah, Mike finds he cannot accept the intangible affections of the wily Anna. The skillful interweaving of these two love stories – one period, one contemporary – yields a fascinating insight into the passion and mystery that can pull two people together…and just as easily tear them apart.